FAROL is a beautiful volunteer project helping local families in need, of which there are way more than you might think. Founded by the parishes of Ericeira and Carvoeira, they provide daily food distribution, hospital transport, tutoring, legal support, and even help people find jobs and homes. You can help them preparing the daily care boxes for the families, help out at their stand at supermarket Intermarché or help collect food from shops, restaurants and even schools in Ericeira.

Pedalar Sem Idade (Cycle without Age) is a nationwide initiative where old people and people with reduced mobility can enjoy a bike ride in a Trishaw: a special adapted bicycle with a comfy couch. They just opened in Mafra and are desperately looking for volunteers. As a volunteer, you’ll pick up a passenger from their home or a meeting point and take them for a ride of about an hour around the city, maybe even to a place full of memories. 

Ericeira Paws is a dedicated group of volunteers working to improve the lives of the dogs and cats from the Mafra animal shelter. They are giving love and care to around 40 dogs and 10 cats who are living in stressful, caged environments. You can help them by walking the dogs, fostering a dog for a limited time, help them to organise fundraisers and create content for their social media.